In the world of football, “you criticize, you play” is a common retort to media commentators and fans. However, Piers Morgan, a renowned English commentator, former editor of The Mirror and Daily News, and 2023 British Sports Journalist of the Year, now working for CNN, argues that if England’s manager Gareth Southgate follows his guidance, victory in the Euros is within reach!
Morgan asserts, “England last won the Euros in 1966 when I was only 16 months old. But with some smart tactics, a bit of luck, fewer injuries to key players, and a helping hand from above, we can triumph in the tournament!”
Morgan highlights several key points. For instance, VENGEANCE, using the desire to avenge their loss in the 2020 Euros as motivation. BOTTLE, referring to the courage England needs to attack like the “Three Lions” instead of Southgate’s overly defensive approach. PASTA, symbolizing the need to learn from Italy’s resilience and stamina. And HAMSTRING, emphasizing the importance of keeping Luke Shaw fit.
He also offers practical advice: finding better ways to contain Kylian Mbappé, being cautious of the still-formidable Cristiano Ronaldo despite his age, substituting fatigued starters like Harry Kane, and discovering super subs, utilizing talents like Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.
Some of Morgan’s suggestions border on the eccentric. He proposes incorporating more Beatles elements into the team or utilizing the “WAGs” (wives and girlfriends) by having them sit on the bench to distract opponents. There are also suggestions that touch on sensitive matters, which aren’t elaborated upon.
In conclusion, Morgan emphasizes, “We have pace, strength, talented individuals, top goalkeepers, and goal-scoring machines… We were so close in the last Euros, and our squad is even stronger now. Hence, if Southgate listens to my advice, we stand a great chance of achieving success and lifting the trophy!”